Removing A Rolex Case-Back

[dkhosy]

Hi Guys,

I'm to to the forum.

I currently buy and sell Rolex watches in my spare time. Around 1 per month atm. I stick to buying either new or nearly new atm, as I can get proof of purchase etc to authenticate, along with my other checks.

I am looking for advice on buying a tool to remove the case-back, where I can check the moment going forward.

Does anyone have any advice on the best hand-held tool to use for removing the case-back?

Thanks in advanced.

[Agamemnon]

Welcome (hopefully)!

[Agamemnon]

https://www.amazon.com/Watch-Repair-...xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

[brandrea]

Esslinger or Bergeon have them.

Welcome aboard.

[KevNev]

I don't want this to sound mean but if you don't know what tool to use, do you know what to look for in the movement?

[dkhosy]

Originally Posted by KevNev

I don't want this to sound mean but if you don't know what tool to use, do you know what to look for in the movement?

No, I don't know what to look for atm. However, my plan is to watch tones of videos and open as many up as I can to get familiar with them.

Atm, I only buy from people who have Original purchase receipt and can show me the bank transaction on the same date. Nobody genuine has had an issue showing me this.

Got to start somewhere.

[WatchTimes]

You realize when you open them they loose the WR protection as you don't know how to or have the tools to pressure test a watch?

[dkhosy]

Originally Posted by WatchTimes

You realize when you open them they loose the WR protection as you don't know how to or have the tools to pressure test a watch?

Yes, I would then get them pressure tested. I have someone local I can go to for this.

I need to be in a position to check the watch is genuine and then buy it in there and then.

[WatchTimes]

Originally Posted by dkhosy

Yes, I would then get them pressure tested. I have someone local I can go to for this.

I need to be in a position to check the watch is genuine and then buy it in there and then.

You should have the person who'd pressure test them open and inspect the movement with you till you have a better grasp of things and inspecting it on your own
It may cost you more but education is not free and it could save you an expensive mistake.

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by WatchTimes

You realize when you open them they loose the WR protection as you don't know how to or have the tools to pressure test a watch?

Opening a watch does not necessarily makes it loose the WR; most times seal is not damaged or replaced every time a watch is opened. However if it is not tested afterwards then you don’t know whether it is WR or not.

Originally Posted by WatchTimes

You should have the person who'd pressure test them open and inspect the movement with you till you have a better grasp of things and inspecting it on your own
It may cost you more but education is not free and it could save you an expensive mistake.

Good advise


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[Casey VP-26]

If your new at this, I would advise one of the screw down press style openers. Good Luck

[sheldonsmith]

This ought to answer some questions.



https://www.minus4plus6.com/caseback.php

~ Sheldon

[Kevin of Larchmont]

No matter how impeccable the documentation I would be extraordinarily hesitant to buy a Rolex that anyone other than a certified Rolex tech had pulled the back off of.

[George58]

Originally Posted by Kevin of Larchmont

No matter how impeccable the documentation I would be extraordinarily hesitant to buy a Rolex that anyone other than a certified Rolex tech had pulled the back off of.

I agree

[drrd]

Originally Posted by Kevin of Larchmont

No matter how impeccable the documentation I would be extraordinarily hesitant to buy a Rolex that anyone other than a certified Rolex tech had pulled the back off of.

Which is why they won’t mention it.

[77T]

Originally Posted by drrd

Which is why they won’t mention it.

Precisely


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[Sofodot]

Welcome

[Calatrava r]

OP should disclose that he has removed the backs of the watches he sells, if he did so. Some might find re-assurance in this; others may not want third party intrusion into the watch when the watch is almost new and still under warranty.
Seems I read somewhere that a good test for any Rolex is to simply weigh it. Each model weighs the same exact number of grams. To make a functioning copy it is difficult to get the weight exact using a non-Rolex movement and case.

[watchwatcher]

Originally Posted by Kevin of Larchmont

No matter how impeccable the documentation I would be extraordinarily hesitant to buy a Rolex that anyone other than a certified Rolex tech had pulled the back off of.

I'll go you one further. I wouldn't. But that brings another thought to mind...

OP, please tell me you're going to disclose to potential sellers that you, a non-certified Rolex technician/watchmaker who doesn't even know how to remove a case back and doesn't even know what tool to use- much less what to look for, have removed the case back prior to sale.

[rmwill]

Use locking pliers. Go with the good ones, Vice Grip. The knockoffs will damage the caseback.

[Rafeeq]

Originally Posted by rmwill

Use locking pliers. Go with the good ones, Vice Grip. The knockoffs will damage the caseback.

Yeah, there's no such thing as being too careful!